Forecast

Legislature approves DUI ignition locks

Ken Dixon
| on May 7, 2014

HARTFORD -- Even first-time drunken-driving arrests could result in court-ordered ignition interlock devices, under a bill that was ratified in the House this afternoon.

The equipment requires drivers to blow into the ignition device, which has sensors to measure blood levels and prevent vehicles from starting if there is a presence of alcohol. Some devices have photographic equipment to confirm a driver's identity.

The legislation was approved 147-0 after an hour-long debate. It was previously approved in the Senate and moves next to the governor.

First-time convictions would require drivers to install the equipment in his or her primary vehicles for six months; repeat offenders would have the devices for a year; and third-time offenders would have to use the equipment for two years.

After arrests, there are automatic 45-day suspensions during which drivers can appeal to be allowed to drive vehicles to work. The devices would also have to be installed in those cases.

Approximate fees for the devices are about $100 to install, plus up to $90 a month to rent through approved companies.

Rep. Gerald M. Fox III, D-Stamford, co-chairman of the Judiciary Committee, said that in recent years the technology has proven to change behavior. "The fact they can't operate a car after driving is something that's working," said Fox, who introduced the legislation.